5 Tips for Getting Through your First 30 Days of Recovery

When it comes to recovery most people think your first 30 days will be a breeze however, it may be one of the hardest times during your drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Physically you will feel ready to take on the world’s strongest man but mentally this will be your make or break period.

Here are 5 tips to help you get through your first 30 days of recovery:

Join a support group

Having a supportive and positive group of people to rely on is critical during recovery. It is important to establish a network of people who you can rely on when the going gets tough and you need to get out of your own head. These friends aren’t to be taken for granted or to be used whenever you feel like you can’t cope.

Your support group made up of friends from meetings, treatment, and family should be treated with respect. Even on your best days it’s important to keep in touch and friendly! Remember you are as much an anchor to them as they are to you.

Write it down

The age old technique of putting your feelings to paper is one that cannot be beat! Self reflection in recovery allows you to vent your frustrations and emotions in a safe place. They can also become a great source of self motivation. Your style of expression can vary from journaling, poetry, and even doodling counts!

Exercise!

I’m sure you’ve seen or read this before but exercise is really a great stress reliever for people in recovery! Exercising releases natural endorphins or pleasure chemicals into the brain making you feel great. Not to mention it allows you to focus on a task at hand and whips your body into shape. You can also turn working out into a social event by inviting friends to join in.

Focus on the moment

Living with regret will only bring you more remorse and take away from your progress. Instead focus your energy on the current moment. Live to handle your present situation and how you can further improve yourself.

A great technique will be to meditate for at least 15 minutes each day. Take this time to clear your mind of distractions and focus on your thoughts on creating positive energy.

DO NOT rationalize

One of the worst things a recovering addict can do when they are having a hard time is rationalize. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been in recovery NEVER resort to rationalizing. This train of thought often leads you into relapse and eventually back to addiction. Signs you are rationalizing starts with phrases such as “What’s one drink?” or “I used to be way worse so one more time isn’t so bad”.